Fresh Cult Clashes in Lagos Leave Four Dead Across Multiple Districts
At least four persons are feared dead following a series of separate cult-related violent clashes that erupted in different parts of Lagos State over recent days. These incidents have sparked widespread concern among residents and authorities as they highlight ongoing security challenges in Nigeria's commercial capital.
Incidents Span Multiple Local Government Areas
The violent clashes occurred between Wednesday and Monday across several communities, including Iyana-Ipaja and Aboru in Alimosho Local Government Area. Additionally, disturbances were reported in Badore and Olokonla within Ajah, Eti-Osa Local Government Area, as well as in Onipanu near Fadeyi and Satellite Town. This geographical spread indicates a troubling pattern of cult-related violence affecting diverse neighborhoods in Lagos.
Details of the Fatal Attacks
In Badore, one individual identified simply as Chidera was reportedly killed on Friday during a confrontation involving suspected members of rival cult groups. Meanwhile, in the Onipanu area near Fadeyi, a man known as Israel was shot dead. Disturbing videos from this attack show the victim with a gunshot wound to the head, while assailants continued firing multiple shots until he became motionless.
Similarly, in Iyana-Ipaja and Aboru, videos and photos circulated online depict at least three persons with severe injuries, including deep cuts to their heads and shoulders, with blood visibly gushing from the wounds. In Satellite Town, a man was found dead at the NEPA Junction last Wednesday, though it remains unclear whether this killing is directly linked to cult violence.
Police Response and Investigation
While official confirmation was being awaited from the Lagos State Police Command regarding the earlier incidents, another tip-off revealed that a man was killed on Monday morning at Baba Adisa Bus Stop in Ibeju-Lekki. The victim, identified only as Alabama, was discovered lying motionless on the pavement, wearing a black shirt and a ring on his left ear.
The spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Mrs. Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the killing at Satellite Town, describing it as a suspected murder. She stated, "The receipt of these incidents from you yesterday prompted me to reach out to all the DPOs in charge of the locations you mentioned. None confirmed the incidents, except the one at Satellite Town, which was confirmed as a suspected murder. The case is under investigation and will be transferred to the SCID, Panti, as soon as possible."
Community Impact and Ongoing Concerns
These violent clashes have left residents in affected areas living in fear, with many calling for increased police presence and more robust security measures. The incidents underscore the persistent threat posed by cult groups in urban centers like Lagos, where such violence can disrupt daily life and undermine public safety.
Authorities continue to investigate these cases, urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further bloodshed in the community.